Florida’s 7-Foot-9 Center Olivier Rioux Shines in Historic College Hoops Debut
In a highly anticipated moment for college basketball, Olivier Rioux made his debut for the Florida Gators on a memorable Thursday night. Standing at an impressive 7 feet 9 inches, he officially became the tallest player in college basketball history.
Olivier Rioux’s Historic College Debut
During a game against Northern Florida, the excitement among fans had been building. Coach Todd Golden finally responded to the chants of “We Want Ollie” with less than three minutes to go in the game. Rioux entered the game to thunderous applause from the Gators’ supporters, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Game Highlights
- Final Score: Florida Gators 104, Northern Florida Ospreys 64
- Debut Duration: 2 minutes
- Statline: No points recorded
Despite not scoring, his entry onto the court was a defining moment for many fans and players alike. “It felt great,” Rioux shared, expressing gratitude for the support he received during the game. His journey to this point has been noteworthy, as he previously served a redshirt season during Florida’s national title campaign.
The Road to Florida
Originally from Canada, Rioux made headlines when he committed to Florida for the 2024-25 season. He entered the Guinness World Record in 2022 as the tallest living male teenager, surpassing previous record holders like Paul Sturgess and Yao Ming. His height has made him a major focus in college basketball, drawing significant attention from fans and media.
Coach’s Perspective
Coach Golden acknowledged Rioux’s hard work and positive attitude, despite limited playing time. “He’s put in a lot of great work… I thought it would be a good opportunity to get him out there,” Golden noted, reflecting on the decision to play him as the game was well in hand.
As Rioux looks forward to his sophomore season, the Florida Gators remain a strong contender for another championship. His debut, though brief, promises to be the start of a remarkable career in college basketball.
